In an exciting clash in the Challenger match of the Big Bash League (BBL) | 14, Sydney Thunder defeated Sydney Sixers at the iconic Sydney Cricket Ground. The fans enjoyed truly exceptional moments, especially on the field, as George Garton starred in a spectacular catch by the Sixers captain Moisés Henriques and vital wickets that helped propel the Thunder to a 4-wicket victory.
George Garton’s scream destroys the hopes of the Sydney Sixers
The Sixers’ 13th inning saw an impressive fielding display from Garton, which left the crowd in awe. Tom Andrews he threw to Henriques, and the ball was slightly short and wide. Henriques, looking to capitalize on the delivery, attempted a back-foot strike but sent the ball high and to the left of cover. It was traveling at high speed and seemed destined to land on a limit. However, Garton lunged to his left, lunging with both hands, but miraculously managed to catch it with just one hand. The impressive catch not only ended Henriques’ knock at 29 runs (off 30 balls), but also dealt a blow to the Sixers’ chase.
Here is the video:
🚨 George Garton SCREAMER 🚨
That’s another unreal shot! #BBL14 pic.twitter.com/CQ3Dwkya0Q
— KFC Big Bash League (@BBL) January 24, 2025
Andrews was the key figure with the ball, claiming two crucial wickets in the same over. After firing Henriques, Andrews struck again to oust Lachlan Shaw for a duck The delivery was slower and wider, prompting Shaw to lean forward to drive. However, he mistimed the shot and threw a simple catch to the Thunder captain. David Warner on deck. Warner made no mistake and Shaw was sent packing in search of a golden duck. The Sixers were now in deep trouble, with two wickets falling quickly, leaving them with plenty to do.
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Garton shines again with a vital wicket
Garton, who had already impressed with his fielding, appeared with the ball in the 19th minute to take another important wicket. This time, it was Ben Dwarshuis who fell into a magnificent catch by Hugh Weibgen. Garton had bowled a slower ball, using a change of pace to fool Dwarshuis. The ball was pushed away from the hitting zone by Dwarshuis, who attempted to hit it, but missed the moment of the shot, sending it high into the air. Weibgen, stationed at mid-wicket, ran forward, lunged and held on to the hook with both hands. It was a fantastic piece of fielding, and Garton had claimed his first wicket of the night, sending Dwarshuis back for 30 runs (off 20 balls).
This ball was SO high, but somehow Hugh Weibgen managed to catch it! @BKTtires #goldenmoment #BBL14 pic.twitter.com/IhWecoE2da
— KFC Big Bash League (@BBL) January 24, 2025
Sam Billings’ winner takes Sydney Thunder to final
Despite early gains, the Sixers still had hope as they posted a competitive total. However, the Thunder’s pursuit was firm and sure, with Sam Billings providing the much needed boost. Billings played a game-winning shot, showing excellent composure under pressure and ensuring the Thunder stayed on track for victory. His brilliant innings earned him the Player of the Match award, and his contribution was instrumental in Thunder’s successful chase. With this exciting victory, the Thunder secured their place in the BBL|14 finals, where they will face the Hobart Hurricanes at the Bellerive Oval in Hobart on Monday 27 January.